Feminist News

New Hampshire Governor Signs Lesbian and Gay Rights Law

New Hampshire's first female Governor, Jeanne Shaheen, has signed a bill which offers lesbians and gay men protection against discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodation. At the bill-signing ceremony, Shaheen commented, "If we are to be true to our belief that all people are created equal, we must ensure that all of our people enjoy the same basic rights under the law." May Bonauto, an attorney for the Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders commented, "This locks up New England as a region which condemns discriminatory treatment on the job. It is also a step forward for the business community, which recognizes that discriminatory business practices don't pay." New Hampshire becomes the eleventh state to offer lesbians and gay men protection against discrimination. The law takes effect on January 1, 1998.